U.S. patent application number 14/530863 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-19 for dispensing assembly.
The applicant listed for this patent is Roche Diagnostic Operations, Inc.. Invention is credited to Stefan Borja Bammesberger, Andreas Ernst, Peter Koltay, Nadine Losleben, Laurent Tanguy.
Application Number | 20150050719 14/530863 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48444361 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150050719 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bammesberger; Stefan Borja ;
et al. |
February 19, 2015 |
DISPENSING ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A dispensing assembly comprising a cartridge holder is
presented. The cartridge holder can receive a cartridge for
dispensing a fluid. The cartridge can comprise a reservoir for
receiving the fluid. The reservoir can comprise an outlet. The
reservoir can have an adjustable volume for forcing the fluid
through the outlet. The cartridge can further comprise a nozzle for
dispensing the fluid. The nozzle can be connected to the outlet.
The dispensing assembly can further comprise an actuator for
actuating the adjustable volume. The dispensing assembly can
further comprise an impulse generator for imparting an impulse to
the nozzle. The impulse generator can comprise an actor for
contacting the nozzle. The dispenser assembly can further comprise
a controller for controlling the actor and the impulse
generator.
Inventors: |
Bammesberger; Stefan Borja;
(Freiburg, DE) ; Ernst; Andreas; (Bollschweil,
DE) ; Koltay; Peter; (Freiburg, DE) ;
Losleben; Nadine; (Mannheim, DE) ; Tanguy;
Laurent; (Freiburg, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Roche Diagnostic Operations, Inc. |
Indianapolis |
IN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48444361 |
Appl. No.: |
14/530863 |
Filed: |
November 3, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/EP2013/059492 |
May 7, 2013 |
|
|
|
14530863 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
435/286.5 ;
422/505; 422/509; 422/81; 435/283.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 35/1016 20130101;
B01L 2200/143 20130101; B05B 1/02 20130101; G01N 35/1002 20130101;
B05C 5/0291 20130101; G01N 35/1009 20130101; B05B 17/06 20130101;
B01L 3/0268 20130101; G01N 2035/1025 20130101; B05C 5/0225
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
435/286.5 ;
435/283.1; 422/509; 422/505; 422/81 |
International
Class: |
G01N 35/10 20060101
G01N035/10; B05B 17/06 20060101 B05B017/06; B01L 3/02 20060101
B01L003/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 8, 2012 |
EP |
12167107.7 |
Claims
1. A dispensing assembly, the dispensing assembly comprising: a
cartridge holder, wherein the cartridge holder receives a cartridge
for dispensing a fluid, wherein the cartridge comprises a reservoir
for receiving the fluid, wherein the reservoir comprises an outlet,
wherein the reservoir has an adjustable volume for forcing the
fluid through the outlet, wherein the cartridge further comprises a
nozzle having an orifice for dispensing the fluid, wherein the
nozzle is connected to the outlet; an actuator for actuating the
adjustable volume; an impulse generator for imparting an impulse to
the nozzle, wherein the impulse generator comprises an actor for
contacting the nozzle; and a controller for controlling the
actuator and the impulse generator, wherein the controller is
programmed to control the actuator to force a predetermined volume
of fluid through the outlet, wherein the controller is further
programmed to control the impulse generator to impart an impulse to
the nozzle after the predetermined volume of fluid is forced
through the outlet and/or control the impulse generator to impart
an impulse to the nozzle during the forcing of the predetermined
volume fluid through the outlet.
2. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, further comprises,
a meniscus detector for detecting a meniscus of the fluid.
3. The dispensing assembly according to claim 2, wherein the
meniscus detector is located between the orifice and the actor.
4. The dispensing assembly according to claim 2, wherein the
controller is programmed to: control the actuator to force fluid
through the outlet; detect the meniscus using the meniscus
detector; and control the actuator to halt the forcing of fluid
through the outlet when the meniscus is in a predetermined
location.
5. The dispensing assembly according to claim 2, wherein the
meniscus detector is any one of the following: a capacitive sensor,
an optical sensor, or a camera.
6. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
controller is programmed to control the actuator to withdraw a
second predetermined volume of fluid through the outlet from the
nozzle after controlling the impulse generator to impart the
impulse.
7. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the actor
is in contact with the nozzle.
8. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle
is formed from a plastic.
9. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle
dispenses the fluid in a first direction, wherein the actor
contacts the nozzle with motion in a second direction, and wherein
the first direction is transverse to the second direction.
10. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
dispensing assembly is a micro-fluidic dispensing assembly.
11. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, further
comprises, a valve for sealing the nozzle at a sealing
location.
12. The dispensing assembly according to claim 11, wherein
withdrawing the second predetermined volume of fluid causes a
meniscus of the fluid within nozzle to withdraw to a withdrawal
location, and wherein the sealing location is between the
withdrawal location and the orifice.
13. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
dispensing assembly comprises the cartridge.
14. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the fluid
comprises any one of the following: a reagent, a blood grouping
reagent, a solvent, a diluent, a catalyst, an antibody, an enzyme,
a recombinant protein, a virus isolate, a virus, a biological
reagent, a protein, a salt, a detergent, a nucleic acid, an acid, a
base, a dispersion, latex particles, nano particles, magnetic
particles, stem cells, cells, a biological structure, a
microorganism, and combinations thereof.
15. The dispensing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
cartridge comprises a syringe.
16. An automatic analyzer for analyzing a biological sample
comprising a dispensing assembly according to claim 1.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of PCT/EP2013/059492,
filed May 7, 2013, which is based on and claims priority to EP
12167107.7, filed May 8, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the dispensing
of fluids.
[0003] In medical laboratories, in vitro diagnostics are commonly
performed on biological samples. Such tests may be performed
manually using pipettes or maybe performed using an automatic
analyzer. Automatic analyzers may automatically add reagents to the
biological sample and may measure one or more physical properties
of the biological sample during analysis.
SUMMARY
[0004] According to the present disclosure, a dispensing assembly
is presented. The dispensing assembly can comprise a cartridge
holder. The cartridge holder can receive a cartridge for dispensing
a fluid. The cartridge can comprise a reservoir for receiving the
fluid. The reservoir can comprise an outlet. The reservoir can have
an adjustable volume for forcing the fluid through the outlet. The
cartridge can further comprise a nozzle having an orifice for
dispensing the fluid. The nozzle can be connected to the outlet.
The dispensing assembly can further comprise an actuator for
actuating the adjustable volume and an impulse generator for
imparting an impulse to the nozzle. The impulse generator can
comprise an actor for contacting the nozzle. The dispensing
assembly can further comprise a controller for controlling the
actuator and the impulse generator. The controller is programmed to
control the actuator to force a predetermined volume of fluid
through the outlet, to control the impulse generator to impart an
impulse to the nozzle after the predetermined volume of fluid is
forced through the outlet and/or to control the impulse generator
to impart an impulse to the nozzle during the forcing of the
predetermined volume fluid through the outlet
[0005] Other features of the embodiments of the present disclosure
will be apparent in light of the description of the disclosure
embodied herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The following detailed description of specific embodiments
of the present disclosure can be best understood when read in
conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is
indicated with like reference numerals and in which:
[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to yet
another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates an automatic analyzer according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to still
another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to a
further embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a tube and a piston which
are used to form a reservoir according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates a dispenser assembly according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 10 illustrates a dispenser assembly which is similar to
the dispenser assembly shown in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment
of the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 11 illustrates a plot of the viscosity versus surface
tension for several different
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] In the following detailed description of the embodiments,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part
hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration, and not by
way of limitation, specific embodiments in which the disclosure may
be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be
utilized and that logical, mechanical and electrical changes may be
made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure.
[0019] A controller as used herein can encompass a device, machine,
or apparatus for controlling the operation and/or function of one
or more other devices. Examples of a controller may include, but
are not limited to: a computer, a processor, an imbedded system or
controller, a programmable logic controller, and a microcontroller.
A `computing device` or `computer` as used herein can encompass any
device comprising a processor. A `processor` as used herein can
encompass an electronic component which can execute a program or
machine executable instruction.
[0020] A `computer-readable storage medium` as used herein can
encompass any tangible storage medium which may store instructions
which can be executable by a processor of a computing device. The
computer-readable storage medium may be referred to as a
computer-readable non-transitory storage medium.
[0021] `Computer memory` or `memory` can be an example of a
computer-readable storage medium. Computer memory can be any memory
which can be directly accessible to a processor or other
controller. `Computer storage` or `storage` can be an example of a
computer-readable storage medium. Computer storage can be any
non-volatile computer-readable storage medium.
[0022] A `user interface` as used herein can be an interface which
can allow a user or operator to interact with a computer or
computer system.
[0023] A `hardware interface` as used herein can encompass an
interface which can enable a processor or other controller to
interact with and/or control an external computing device and/or
apparatus. A hardware interface may allow a processor to send
control signals or instructions to an external computing device
and/or apparatus.
[0024] A dispensing assembly is provided. The dispensing assembly
can comprise a cartridge holder. The cartridge holder can receive a
cartridge for dispensing a fluid. The cartridge can comprise a
reservoir operable for receiving the fluid. The reservoir can
comprise an outlet. The reservoir can have an adjustable volume for
forcing the fluid through the outlet. In some embodiments, the
volume of the reservoir may be increased to suck fluid into the
reservoir. In some embodiments, the volume of the reservoir may
also be increased to aspirate liquid through the nozzle. This may
be used for example to fill the reservoir.
[0025] The cartridge can further comprise a nozzle for dispensing
the fluid. The nozzle can be connected to the outlet. The
dispensing assembly can further comprise an actuator for actuating
the adjustable volume. The dispensing assembly can further comprise
an impulse generator for imparting an impulse to the nozzle. This
embodiment may be beneficial because it may provide a method for
dispensing the fluid more accurately. The impulse generator may be
able to knock droplets or drops out of the nozzle or off of the
nozzle to make the dispensing more reliable and more
reproducible.
[0026] The impulse generator may take different forms depending on
how it is constructed. It may be a piezoelectric actuator and may
use such things as a piston or ring for actuating the nozzle. The
impulse generator may be pneumatically actuated; this may include a
concentric nozzle or a fan jet. The actuator may be an
electromagnetically actuated piston and plunger, for example, a
hard magnet inside of a coil. The impulse generator may further be
a piston and plunger actuated by a linear drive or a motor of some
sort. The impulse generator may further be an acoustic or
ultrasonic impulse generator.
[0027] The term "actor" as understood herein can relate to a
mechanical contact element that can be driven to mechanically act
upon another element, for example, the elastomeric fluid conduit,
by exercising a mechanical force.
[0028] The impulse generator can comprise an actor for contacting
the nozzle. The actor may be used for imparting the impulse to the
nozzle. The impulse can be communicated from the impulse generator
directly to the nozzle. Imparting the impulse directly to the
nozzle as is done in the present disclosure may reduce the amount
of force needed to knock a drop from the nozzle. This may be
particularly beneficial when the fluid to be dispensed is sensitive
to shear forces.
[0029] The actuator may take several different forms. In one
embodiment, the actuator can be a syringe pump. However, other such
sorts of pumps such as, for example, peristaltic pump, a diaphragm
pump or other pressure-generating system may also be used. In some
embodiments, the cartridge can comprise a plunger, however this is
not necessary. There can be no plunger at all or the plunger can be
part of the actuator.
[0030] In another embodiment, the nozzle can be a flexible
nozzle.
[0031] In another embodiment, the dispensing assembly can further
comprise a meniscus detector for detecting a meniscus of the
fluid.
[0032] In another embodiment, the cartridge can further comprise a
piston. The piston can change the volume of the reservoir and force
the fluid through the outlet.
[0033] In another embodiment, the dispensing assembly can further
comprise a controller for controlling the actuator and the impulse
generator.
[0034] In another embodiment, the dispensing assembly can further
comprise a meniscus detector for detecting the meniscus of the
fluid. The controller can be programmed to control the actuator to
force the fluid through the outlet. The controller can further be
programmed to detect the meniscus using the meniscus detector. The
controller can further be programmed to control the actuator to
halt the forcing of the fluid through the outlet when the meniscus
is in a predetermined location. This embodiment may be beneficial
because if the meniscus is in the same place when the fluid
dispensing starts, then the dispensing of the fluid may be more
accurate, more precise and/or more reproducible. The meniscus may
be inside or outside the nozzle. For instance, the nozzle may be a
long tube-like structure and the meniscus may have a particular
position within the tube. In other embodiments, the meniscus may be
formed by a drop of the fluid hanging from the nozzle. So in this
case, the meniscus may therefore be inside or outside the flexible
nozzle. In many applications, the meniscus can be positioned right
at the orifice of the nozzle.
[0035] In another embodiment, the controller can further be
programmed to control the actuator to force a predetermined volume
of fluid through the outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator may
be controlled to force the predetermined volume after the meniscus
is in the predetermined location. The controller can further be
programmed to control the impulse generator to impart an impulse to
the nozzle after the predetermined volume of fluid is forced
through the outlet. This embodiment may be beneficial because it
may be used to knock or remove fluid from the nozzle in a
controllable and defined fashion; after dispensing this may make
the dispensing of the fluid more accurate and more
reproducible.
[0036] In another embodiment, the impulse generator can be control
to impart a predetermined number of impulses of defined duration
and force to the nozzle.
[0037] In another embodiment, the controller can further be
programmed to control the actuator to force a predetermined volume
of fluid through the outlet. In some embodiments, the predetermined
volume of fluid may be forced through the outlet after the meniscus
is in the predetermined location. The controller can further be
programmed to control the impulse generator to impart an impulse to
the nozzle during the forcing of the predetermined volume of fluid
through the outlet and, also after the predetermined volume of
fluid can be forced through the outlet. In this embodiment, an
impulse can be directed towards the nozzle during and after
dispensing of the fluid.
[0038] In another embodiment, the controller can further be
programmed to control the actuator to force a predetermined volume
of fluid through the outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator may
be controlled to force the predetermined volume of fluid through
the outlet after the meniscus is in the predetermined location. The
controller can further be programmed to control the impulse
generator to impart an impulse to the nozzle during the forcing of
the predetermined volume of fluid through the outlet.
[0039] In another embodiment, the controller can further be
programmed to control the actuator to withdraw a second
predetermined volume of fluid through the outlet from the nozzle
after controlling the impulse generator to impart the impulse. This
embodiment may be beneficial because it may be used to withdraw
fluid from the nozzle further into the nozzle or even back into the
reservoir.
[0040] In another embodiment, the meniscus detector can be any one
of the following: a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor or a
camera. When the meniscus is inside of the nozzle, a capacitive
sensor may be used to detect the location of the meniscus. In case
the nozzle is optically transparent, an optical sensor may also be
used to determine the location of the meniscus within the nozzle.
If the meniscus extends beyond the nozzle, then a capacitive
sensor, an optical sensor or a camera may each be used to determine
the location of the meniscus.
[0041] In another embodiment, the nozzle can be a flexible nozzle
and the dispensing assembly can further comprise a valve for
compressing the flexible nozzle at a compression location. This
embodiment may be beneficial because it can enable the flexible
nozzle to be sealed. This may prolong the lifetime of the fluid
within the reservoir. In some embodiments, the valve can be a pinch
valve.
[0042] In another embodiment, the nozzle may receive a cap for
sealing it.
[0043] In another embodiment, withdrawing the second predetermined
volume of the fluid can cause the meniscus to withdraw to a
withdrawal location within the flexible nozzle. The flexible nozzle
can have an orifice. The compression location can be between the
withdrawal location and the orifice. This embodiment may be
beneficial because all of the fluid can be withdrawn such that it
can be sealed by the valve.
[0044] In another embodiment, the impulse generator can comprise an
actor for contacting the nozzle. The actor may be used for
imparting the impulse to the nozzle or may be considered to attach
or detach the impulse generator to the nozzle.
[0045] In another embodiment, the impulse generator can be in
contact or permanent contact with the nozzle. When impulse
generator generates an impulse, it can cause the actor to move
which, in turn, can impart an impulse to the nozzle. This impulse
can cause the nozzle to move also. In this embodiment, the actor
can cause a brief momentary displacement of the nozzle.
[0046] Since the actor is already in contact with the nozzle, there
can be no impact. The imparting of the impulse without an impact
may be beneficial if the fluid has a delicate component such as
stem cells. In some embodiments, the impulse generator can cause
the actor to move approximately 30 .mu.m.
[0047] In another embodiment, the dispensing assembly can further
comprise a linear translator for placing the actor in contact with
the nozzle. For example, the linear translator may move the entire
impulse generator and the actor such that the actor can be in
contact with the nozzle. A translation table can, for example, have
a range of movement of about 20 mm.
[0048] In another example, the linear translator can be a part
which can expand or contract between the impulse generator and the
actor such that the impulse generator can remain in a fixed
position as the actor can be positioned to be in contact with the
nozzle.
[0049] In another embodiment, the meniscus detector can be located
between the orifice and the actor.
[0050] In another embodiment, there can be a first distance between
the meniscus detector and the orifice to prevent contamination of
the meniscus detector when dispensing the fluid.
[0051] In another embodiment, there can be a second distance
between the meniscus detector and the actor to prevent motion of
the actor from affecting operation of the meniscus detector.
[0052] In another embodiment, the meniscus detector can measure the
meniscus location within the nozzle. For example, the side walls of
the nozzle can be transparent and the meniscus detector may be
optical. In other embodiments, the meniscus detector may be a
capacitive detector.
[0053] In another embodiment, the actor can move approximately 30
micrometers when receiving an impulse from the impulse generator.
For example, when the actor is already in contact with the nozzle,
it may receive an impulse which can cause the actor and the nozzle
to move about 30 micrometers.
[0054] In another embodiment, the nozzle can form a channel or is a
tube. In one example, the reservoir can have an inner diameter of
approximately 500 micrometers, 200 micrometers, or 1 mm in
diameter. The cross section of the nozzle may not be circular.
[0055] In another embodiment, the nozzle can have a side wall. The
actor can transfer the impulse of the impulse generator to the side
wall. This embodiment may be beneficial because it may require a
low force to knock any droplets off of the nozzle. In some cases,
the fluid may contain fragile structures which can be damaged by
large impacts. If the actor and the side wall are in contact before
the impulse is generated, then the nozzle can be moved without an
impact from the actor.
[0056] In another embodiment, the impulse generator can impart an
impulse to the nozzle by impacting the nozzle with the actor.
[0057] In another embodiment, the nozzle can be formed from a
plastic. This embodiment may be beneficial because the nozzle can
be extremely light and therefore can require less force to knock a
droplet off than other materials such as metal or glass.
[0058] In another embodiment, the nozzle can dispense the fluid in
a first direction. The actor can contact the nozzle with motion in
a second direction. The first direction can be transverse or almost
transverse to the second direction. This embodiment may be
beneficial because applying the impulse transverse to the direction
of dispensing may reduce the shear forces necessary to knock a
droplet free.
[0059] In one example, the first direction can be vertical or
mostly vertical in an operating position of the dispensing
assembly. In this case, the second direction can be horizontal or
mostly horizontal.
[0060] In another embodiment, the dispenser can be a micro-fluidic
dispensing assembly.
[0061] In another embodiment, the dispensing assembly can dispense
any one of the following volumes: less than 10 ml, less than 5 mL,
less than 1 mL, less than 10 .mu.L, less than 500 nL, less than 200
nL, less than 100 nL, or less than 20 nL.
[0062] In another embodiment, the dispensing assembly can comprise
the cartridge. In another embodiment, the cartridge can comprise
the fluid.
[0063] In another embodiment, the fluid comprises a reagent, a
blood grouping reagent, a solvent, a diluent, a catalyst, an
antibody, an enzyme, a recombinant protein, a virus isolate, a
virus, a biological reagent, a protein, a salt, a detergent, a
nucleic acid, an acid, a base or combinations thereof.
[0064] In another embodiment, the fluid can comprise a dispersion
such as a dispersion of particles within the fluid.
[0065] In another embodiment, the fluid can comprise latex
particles, nanoparticles, magnetic particles, stem cells, cells,
biological structures, microorganisms of combinations thereof.
[0066] In another embodiment, the cartridge can comprise a syringe.
For instance, the syringe may be connected to a nozzle and a
syringe pump may be used as the actuator for actuating the
syringe.
[0067] In another embodiment, the actuator can be a syringe
pump.
[0068] An automatic analyzer can be provided. The automatic
analyzer can be for analyzing the biological sample comprising a
dispensing assembly.
[0069] Referring initially to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 illustrates a
dispenser assembly 100. The dispensing assembly 100 can comprise a
cartridge holder 102, an actuator 104 and an impulse generator 106.
The cartridge holder 102 is shown as being attached to a cartridge
108. The actuator 104, in this example, is shown as having a
plunger 110 in contract with a piston 112. The plunger 110 and
piston 112 may not be present in all embodiments. Depending upon
the implementation the plunger 110 and/or the piston 112 can be
components of the dispenser assembly 100 or the cartridge 108. The
cartridge 108, in this embodiment, can have a reservoir 114 whose
size can be controlled by the piston 112. Moving the piston 112 can
make the reservoir 114 larger or smaller. The reservoir 114 can
have an outlet 115 into a nozzle 116. The impulse generator 106 can
have an actor 118 which can be able to come in physical contact
with the nozzle 116. The piston 112 can be able to be depressed to
force fluid from the reservoir 114 through the nozzle 116. This can
enable fluid to be forced out of an orifice 120 in the nozzle 116.
The impulse generator 106 can be able to use the actor 118 to
physically contact the nozzle 116 to knock droplets out of the
nozzle 116.
[0070] FIG. 2 shows a further example of a dispenser assembly 200.
This embodiment is similar to that shown in FIG. 1 except in this
case, the dispenser assembly 200 can further comprise a controller
202 and a meniscus detector 204. The controller 202 can be a
controller or other control apparatus which can be adapted for
controlling the actuator 104, the impulse generator 106 and the
meniscus detector 204. The meniscus detector 204 can be adapted for
detecting a meniscus 208 in the nozzle 116. The reservoir 114 and
the nozzle 116 are shown as containing a fluid 206. With the
meniscus detector 204, the controller 202 can be able to control
the actuator 104 such that the piston 112 can be depressed the
right amount to position the meniscus 208 in a precise location.
Doing this before beginning the dispensing process, the dispenser
apparatus 200 can be able to more accurately dispense the proper
amount of fluid 206.
[0071] In FIG. 2, the meniscus detector 204 is illustrated by a
small box to one side of the nozzle 116. This representation of the
meniscus detector 204 is intended to be representative. For
example, if the meniscus detector were a capacitive detector, the
meniscus detector 204 may surround all or a portion of the nozzle
116.
[0072] FIG. 3 shows a dispenser assembly 300. The embodiment shown
in FIG. 3 is similar to that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In this
embodiment, the dispenser assembly 300 can comprise a pinch valve
302 and the nozzle 116 can be flexible. The pinch valve 302 can be
adapted for squeezing and pinching closed the flexible nozzle 116
at a compression location 304. This location at which the pinch
valve closes the flexible nozzle 116 is marked by the dashed line.
In this example, it can be seen that the compression location 304
can be between the orifice 120 and the fluid meniscus 208. When the
pinch valve 302 closes, the entire volume of the fluid 206 can be
sealed from the atmosphere.
[0073] In FIG. 3, the representation of the pinch valve 302 by 2
rectangles is intended to be representative. Different sorts of
mechanisms can be used to function as a pinch valve 302. For
instance, the pinch valve 302 may be a single movable piece which
can press or compress the flexible nozzle 116 against a stationary
object.
[0074] FIG. 4 illustrates an automatic analyzer 400. This automatic
analyzer is shown as having three cartridges 108, 108' and 108''.
There can be a dispenser assembly 100 connected to cartridge 108.
There can be a dispenser assembly 100' attached to cartridge 108'.
There can be a dispenser assembly 100'' attached to cartridge
108''. The dispenser assemblies 100, 100', and 100'' can be
equivalent to the dispenser assembly 100 shown in FIG. 1. However,
not all components of the dispenser assembly are detailed in FIG.
4.
[0075] The automatic analyzer 400 is shown as having a relative
mover 410 which can provide relative movement 412 between a sample
holder 406 and the cartridges 108, 108' and 108''. The sample
holder 406 is shown as containing a biological sample 408. The
cartridges 108, 108', 108'' may be used to add one or more fluids
to the biological sample 408. The automatic analyzer 400 is shown
as further containing a sensor system 414. The sensor system can
comprise one or more sensors for measuring a physical quantity or
physical property of the biological sample 408. For example, the
sensor system 414 may comprise an NMR system, an optical
transmission or reflectance measurement system, a spectrometric
measurement system, an electrochemical or optical sensor, a pH
meter, a camera system, and a chromatography system. The relative
mover 410 can also move the sample holder 406 to the sensor system
414.
[0076] The arrangement of the cartridges 108, 108', 108'' and the
sensor system 414 is representative. In some embodiments, the
sample holder 406 may remain in a fixed position and the cartridges
108, 108', 108'' may move. Each cartridge 108, 108', 108'' is shown
as being installed in a dispenser assembly 100, 100', 100''.
[0077] The dispenser assemblies 100, 100', 100'' can each comprise
an impulse generator 106, 106', 106''and an actuator 104, 104',
104''. The impulse generators 106, 106', 106'', the actuators 104,
104', 104'', and the sensor system 414 are shown as being connected
to a hardware interface 422 of a computer system 420. The computer
system 420 can function as a controller for the automatic analyzer
400. The computer 420 is further shown as containing a processor
424 which can control the operation and function of the automatic
analyzer 400 using the hardware interface 422. The processor 424 is
shown as further being connected to a user interface 426, computer
storage 428 and computer memory 430. The computer storage 428 is
shown as containing an analysis request 432. The analysis request
432 can contain a request to analyze the biological sample 408.
[0078] The computer storage 428 is shown as further containing
sensor data 434 received from the sensor system 414. The computer
storage 428 is shown as further containing an analysis result 436
which can be determined using the sensor data 434. The computer
memory 430 can contain a control module 440. The control module 440
can contain computer executable code which can enable the processor
424 to control the operation and function of the automatic analyzer
400. For instance, the control module 440 may use the analysis
request 432 to generate commands to generate and send to the
dispenser assemblies 100, 100', 100'', the sensor system 414 and
the relative movement system 410. The control module 440 may also
generate the analysis result 436 using the sensor data 434.
[0079] FIG. 5 shows a functional diagram of a dispenser assembly.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is similar to that shown in FIGS. 1,
2 and 3. In this example, a syringe pump 502 can be used as the
actuator. In this example, an optical detector can be used as the
meniscus detector 204, it may also be used to measure droplets of
fluid 206 exiting from the nozzle 116.
[0080] FIG. 6 shows a dispenser assembly 600. In this embodiment,
there can be a reservoir 114 that can be bag-like and the actuator
104 can exert pressure directly on the reservoir 114 to force
liquid out of the orifice 120. The bag-like reservoir 114 can be
squeezed between the actuator 104 and the cartridge holder 102.
[0081] FIG. 7 shows a dispenser assembly 700. This embodiment is
similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 5. In this
case, the reservoir 114 can be formed by a bag 702 which can be
contained within a bag support 704. The plunger 112 can be used to
compress the bag 702 and force fluid out of the orifice 120.
[0082] FIG. 8 shows an example of a tube 800 and a piston 802 which
can be used to form a reservoir 804. The reservoir 804 can have an
outlet 806. In this embodiment, the piston 802 can be actuated by a
plunger attached to an actuator. In this embodiment the outlet 806
is shown as have a Luer-Lock connection.
[0083] FIG. 9 illustrates a further example of a dispenser assembly
900. In this embodiment, there can be a syringe pump 902 which can
function as the actuator 104. There can be a plunger 904 which can
be actuated by the syringe pump 902. The inflatable gripper 905 on
the end of the plunger 904 can be able to grab pistons 906 each of
which can be mounted at the end of the reservoirs 908. The plunger
904 can then be able to move a piston back and forth to change the
volume of the reservoir 908. At the bottom of the reservoir 908 can
be a nozzle 910 with an orifice 912 through which fluid can be
forced out of. As an alternative to the inflatable gripper 905,
other types of grippers; for example, holding the piston by vacuum,
electromagnetic holding systems, and the like can be used.
[0084] In another embodiment, a robotic arm can move the cartridge
from a parking to a dispensing position and vice versa.
[0085] In another embodiment, a contact or distance sensor can be
integrated into the plunger to detect the distance to the piston
when the piston can be contacted by the plunger. If the plunger is
part of the cartridge, a finger gripper with a contact sensor can
be added to contact the plunger.
[0086] In another embodiment, the impulse generator may be put in
contact with the nozzle before an impulse can be generated by the
impulse generator. After the dispensing process, the impulse
generator may be removed to a sufficient distance in order to be
able to remove the cartridge without touching the impulse generator
with the orifice or the reagent. This may help to eliminate or
reduce cross contamination. For this automation purpose, an
additional actor may be beneficial. For example, a pneumatic linear
actuator may be used.
[0087] FIG. 10 shows a dispenser assembly 1000 which is similar to
the dispenser assembly shown in FIG. 2. The dispenser assembly 1000
may also have a controller, but it is not shown in this figure. For
example, the dispense assembly may have a controller 202 as is
shown in FIG. 2 or a controller 420 as is shown in FIG. 4.
[0088] The meniscus detector 204 is shown as surrounding the nozzle
116. The dispenser assembly 1000 can dispense the fluid in a first
direction 1002. For instance, the dispenser may dispense the fluid
in a downward vertical direction. The actor 118 can move in the
direction 1004. The direction 1002 and the direction 1004 are shown
as being transverse or approximately transverse to each other. The
meniscus detector 204 can be a first distance 1006 from the orifice
120. Placing the meniscus detector 204 at the first distance 1006
can prevent fluid 114 which is been dispensed from contacting the
meniscus detector 204.
[0089] In some examples, the actor 118 may be in contact with a
sidewall 1010 of the nozzle 116 before the impulse generator 106
generates the impulse.
[0090] The meniscus detector 204 can be placed at a second distance
1008 from the actor 118. This can be done so that when the actor
118 can be contacting the sidewall 1010 of the nozzle 116 the
motion of the actor may not interfere with the operation of the
meniscus detector 204. The arrangement shown in FIG. 10 may be
particularly beneficial if the nozzle 116 is constructed of a
material such as plastic. The actor 118 can contact the nozzle 116
directly. This can mean that not much force may need to be
transferred to the nozzle 116 in order to knock droplets off the
orifice 120. If the fluid 114 contains a component which may be
damaged due to high shear forces, for example, stem cells, this
arrangement may help reduce the risk of damaging those components.
If, for instance, forces were applied to the entire assembly 1000
or to the plunger 110, a larger amount of force may be needed to
transfer in order to knock a droplet off the orifice 120.
[0091] FIG. 11 shows a plot of the viscosity versus surface tension
for several different fluids used as test liquids. Table 1 lists
these fluids along with the viscosity, the surface tension, and the
density for each of the fluids.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Model Viscosity/ Surface Tension/ Density/
Fluid mPas mN/m kg/m.sup.3 A 1.0 31.9 998 B 16.9 65.9 1169 C 10.5
47.3 1139 Water 1.0 70.8 998 D 16.9 30.5 1169
[0092] The tests liquids in table 1 cover the typical range of
viscosities, surface tensions and densities of reagents that are
typically used for in-vitro diagnostics. To evaluate the dispensing
performance for liquids of different viscosities and surface
tensions the fluids shown in FIG. 11 and Table 1 were characterized
using an example of a dispensing assembly as described herein. The
actuation parameters of the syringe and the impulse generator were
not changed for any of the liquids. This can mean that no specific
calibration of the system was performed for each individual
fluid.
[0093] Table 2 shows the coefficient of variation (CV) and the
accuracy (Acc) obtained with the test liquids for 2 different
target volumes (1 .mu.L and 25 .mu.L).
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Fluid .fwdarw. Water A B C D CV 1 .mu.L 0.9%
-1.9% 1.8% 1.8% 1.3% Acc 1 .mu.L -3.4% -8.8% -1.0% 0.3% -1.3% CV 25
.mu.L 2.1% 3.7% 0.7% 3.4% 0.7% Acc 25 .mu.L 0.5% -0.9% 0.6% -1.2%
-0.3%
[0094] As can be seen in Table 2, the dispensing performance was as
precise for the test liquids as it was for water. The CV was below
4% for all liquids. The accuracy ranged in between 0.3% at 1 .mu.L
for liquid C to 8.8% at 1 .mu.L for liquid A. Table 2 illustrates a
potential benefit of examples of the dispensing assembly when
dispensing micro fluidic quantities of fluid. The variation and
accuracy in the dispensing of the fluid can essentially be
independent of the rheological properties of the respective fluid.
Such a dispensing assembly can therefore be useful when a variety
of different fluids showing different rheological properties needs
to be dispensed in very small micro fluidic quantities. For
example, in an automatic analyzer there may be different cartridges
which dispense a variety of reagents. It may be beneficial to use
an example of a dispensing assembly as described herein because it
may not be necessary to calibrate for each particular reagent.
[0095] It is noted that terms like "preferably," "commonly," and
"typically" are not utilized herein to limit the scope of the
claimed embodiments or to imply that certain features are critical,
essential, or even important to the structure or function of the
claimed embodiments. Rather, these terms are merely intended to
highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be
utilized in a particular embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0096] Having described the present disclosure in detail and by
reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent that
modifications and variations are possible without departing from
the scope of the disclosure defined in the appended claims. More
specifically, although some aspects of the present disclosure are
identified herein as preferred or particularly advantageous, it is
contemplated that the present disclosure is not necessarily limited
to these preferred aspects of the disclosure.
* * * * *